Jessica Van der Veen is a screenwriter, acting teacher and actor. For twenty years she acted and directed in film, television and theatre, performing in dozens of productions including. Jessica built a successful career as an acting teacher in Vancouver, teaching at Gastown Actors' Studio and later at the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria. Additionally, she has worked as the Director of Part-Time Studies at the Gastown Actors' Studio where she oversaw seventeen staff and 200 students. After a hiatus to pursue her passion for social justice and stewardship, Jessica returned to teaching, acting and coaching. She also works as a coach for auditions and theatre work, as well as career counselling for young performers. Jessica is also a screenwriter and has several original projects in development. Former students include Sarah Chalke (Roseanne, Scrubs); Alison Somerville (Mamma Mia, Rocky Horror) and many others working across Canada and the United States in film, television and the theatre. Show less «